Johnny Manziel settles differences with LeBron James’ marketing manager over Browns mess
Johnny Manziel started his 20s with dreams the size of gods. Now, the 31-year-old is attempting to atone for his past mistakes involving scandals and partying. In a conversation on "The Shop," Manziel sat down with Maverick Carter, his former manager, to mend things.
Carter has also served as a marketing manager for LeBron James. Manziel said that James also helped him through his struggle:
“[2:45] I still feel a sense of accomplishment for everything that you did for me, that Bron did for me, that the whole crew did for me that I’ll always take forever. I learned way more now with a clear head when I look back at it than I thought I ever really did.”
Carter responded, saying he never felt like he needed an apology:
“[3:40] My point of view on it was I never felt like you owed me an apology. ... The truth is, I’m happy you’re alive. It shifted from like, ‘Get Johnny to his next contract and help him be a great quarterback,’ to ‘just not let this guy die. Damn, let’s just keep him alive.’"
At the time, Cleveland Browns fans thought Manziel had a chance to save the franchise. The team had managed just one winning season between 2003 and 2014. Many fans believed the quarterback was the perfect man at the perfect time.
However, partying, scandals and a lack of winning kept the experiment short. In two seasons, the quarterback won just two games for the franchise. By the end, he had thrown for just seven touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Johnny Manziel joins list of atoning first-round QB busts
Also known as "Johnny Football," Manziel became famous as one of the biggest busts in recent NFL history. Both he and Ryan Leaf showed what can happen if one loses their head after tasting the success that comes with being an NFL quarterback.
Leaf, a recurring guest on "Good Morning Football," has routinely recounted stories of people he hurt and situations with partying. Both Manziel and Leaf now appear to land on the same list of former first-round quarterbacks working their way back from mistakes made in their 20s.
Like Johnny Manziel, the Leaf experiment was a brief one. The San Diego Chargers took him second overall in 1998 and had already moved on by 2001.
Since the darkest days, Leaf has managed to work his way back into a stable life. Will Johnny Manziel complete a similar turnaround?
If any of the above quotes are used, credit "The Shop" and H/T Sportskeeda.